The Rose of Jericho (Selaginella lepidophylla) is often called a resurrection plant because of its ability to survive extreme desiccation. This desert moss curls into a tight, seemingly lifeless ball, only to unfurl and turn green when rehydrated. When activated in water, this unique care requirement introduces a common issue: the development of mold or mildew. This fungal growth results from the plant’s artificial environment when kept in continuous hydration, signaling that its care routine needs immediate adjustment.
Identifying the Cause of Mold Growth
The appearance of mold on the Rose of Jericho signals that conditions are too favorable for fungal organisms. This mold usually manifests as a fuzzy, white, or gray patch, often starting at the plant’s base or on submerged lower fronds. The primary cause is the combination of stagnant water and poor air circulation around the moistened foliage.
When the plant is placed in water, the liquid rapidly accumulates fungal spores and organic material, quickly becoming a nutrient-rich environment. Unlike a plant rooted in soil, the Rose of Jericho’s base is exposed directly to this pooled water. This constant moisture, coupled with a lack of air movement, creates a localized pocket of high humidity perfect for fungal proliferation. The mold feeds on the water’s impurities and any decaying plant matter at the base, an issue linked to ignoring the plant’s natural desert cycle.
Immediate Steps for Mold Removal
The first action is to completely remove the plant from its water source. Lift the Rose of Jericho from the bowl and gently shake off excess liquid, placing it on a dry surface immediately to halt the fungal spread. The plant should then be thoroughly rinsed under cool, running water to physically dislodge surface mold from the fronds and base.
Next, conduct a careful inspection of the plant’s structure. Use a small, sharp pair of sterilized scissors to prune away any fronds that are severely discolored, mushy, or heavily coated in mold, as these parts are unlikely to recover. For a gentle antimicrobial treatment, a highly diluted hydrogen peroxide solution can be applied to the remaining affected areas. Mix one part of standard three-percent hydrogen peroxide with ten parts of water and lightly mist the plant, focusing on the moldy patches, before allowing the plant to air dry completely. Alternatively, a light dusting of cinnamon powder, a natural fungicide, can be applied to the base of the plant once it is dry.
Adjusting Care to Prevent Recurrence
Once the plant has been treated and is fully dry, which can take several days to a week, a fundamental change in the care routine is required to prevent recurrence. The core issue is the violation of the plant’s natural wet/dry cycle. The Rose of Jericho is programmed for periods of extreme drought and should never be kept continually hydrated.
When activating the plant, limit its hydration period to a maximum of five to seven days. During this time, the water in the dish must be changed daily to prevent the stagnation that encourages mold spores to multiply. After a week of hydration, the plant must be removed from the water entirely and allowed to dry out and curl back into its dormant ball. This mandatory rest period should last for at least two to three weeks before rehydration is considered, effectively resetting the environment and desiccating any lingering fungal spores. Furthermore, ensure the plant is placed in an area with reliable air circulation, as this prevents the localized humidity that contributes to fungal growth.